Wow! People just never cease to amaze me!

I think at the end of the day you actually have to be prepared for 1 of 3 things..... either smile & say you haven't made firm decisions yet & don't be explicite (sp?) about your intentions, be prepared to explain that you have a pre-existing situation that has taken decisions out of your hands or learn to be immune to what you think thier judgments are/mean. Get really thick skinned.

I had a similar/funny/interesting experience to this a few weeks ago. I was at a family gathering (DH's family) & his cousin is due within a week of me. I am booked in at Royal North Shore Private.... his Aunt & her (the cousins) brother/wife asked where I was booked but out of a sense of humility (I just didn't feel the need to make the distinction for any particular reason) I replied "Royal North Shore" & they actually visibly snickered at me replying "Oh, she's booked there but in the private hospital"

Seriously, I know that on the face of it this is quite funny & I am overly sensitive anyway but thier reaction & 'gloating' was so obvious & sad.

I just smiled & walked away but I really identify with what you are saying